FAQs - Springboard Enterprises Tech Program

What kind of company are you looking for?

Women-led or co-founded businesses that are ‘born global’ and by their very nature will disrupt the marketplace to achieve their potential as high-growth and high-return enterprises. Applications are accepted at all growth stages from seed to early stage (Series A) to late stage (Series B and beyond).

A woman in a key senior leadership position with a significant equity stake.

A track record of milestone achievement, which may include: grants, clients, revenue, or partners.

A profitable market opportunity with a defensible competitive advantage.

A credible core management team or the ability to attract one.

A willingness to invest back in Springboard and our network.

How does your program differ to others?

We take no equity

We back you, not your company – for life, not just for the program

We build customised coaching teams tailored to your specific needs

We show you how to evaluate your company from an investors perspective

We introduce you to a network of influencers, investors and innovators globally

How do I apply?

Applications are now open for our 2019 Tech Program until 22 January 2019 - click on button to access application form.

When do applications close?

Applications to our 2019 Tech Program close on Tuesday, 22 January at 5pm (AEST).

How do you select Springboard participants?

The screening process is conducted in two parts: an online screening and in-person Regional Interviews (typically held in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Perth). Up to 10 companies can be selected for the program.

What are the program fees?

Program fee: $5,000 (excl. GST). No equity stake taken in your company and in addition to the Springboard Enterprises Tech Program, you receive in-kind services from our partners valued at more than the program fee.

What if I don't make it into the program?

Space is limited and the program is highly selective. We take the time to give detailed feedback to all applicants. If you are not selected we will suggest appropriate other programs or may encourage you to re-apply when further milestones are met. Select candidates not invited to participate in the program may be invited to attend Bootcamp as Observers.

What is an "Observer"?

Timing is everything and sometimes you may be right for the program but not quite at a stage that we feel you will truly benefit from it. Each year we invite such candidates to attend Bootcamp as an "Observer", which means that you attend but you would not pitch during the interactive Bootcamp sessions or be matched to a coaching team. Past observers have found this experience hugely beneficial.

When will I know if I have been selected?

After applications close, your application will be reviewed and we will determine who will be invited to participate in regional interviews. Program participants will be selected the week following in-person interviews.

If accepted can I bring anyone with me to the Bootcamp?

All selected companies are able to bring a colleague to Bootcamp. We suggest that you bring your co-founder or someone from your team. Our alumnae have said that they valued having someone there to take notes, network and better understand the experience. We do not recommend that participants bring family members and we do not allow participants to bring clients or potential clients.

What will I need to organise before attending Bootcamp?

You will be responsible for arranging flights and hotel accommodations during Bootcamp and any other in-person program events.

What happens after Bootcamp?

Bootcamp provides insights for us to assemble a personalised coaching team composed of Australian and US experts who provide input on business strategy and open doors to relevant connections and opportunities.

What is Dolphin Tank®?

At the end of the Coaching Program, we offer companies the opportunity to present at The Dolphin Tank® in Sydney before an audience of investors, corporate executives and advisers. The Dolphin Tank® isn't about Sharks or competition - it's about channeling the expertise of the people in the room to provide support, constructive feedback and practical advice.

I'm not sure I'm ready for the Tech program yet? What else is available?

If you are unsure about whether or not your company is a fit, please contact us at info@sbeaustralia.org. We can help you determine whether you’re eligible for our program, or if you aren’t quite ready, we can point you in the direction of other resources – whether it’s our E3 : Empower, Evolve, Escalate Program, or someone (or something) else entirely.

What are the key dates for 2019?

Applications open: Thursday 22 November 2018

Launch events: 26 November to 6 December 2018

Applications close: 5:00pm (AEST) on Tuesday, 22 January 2019

Regional interviews: 11 - 14 February 2019

Selection notification: Tuesday, 19 February 2019

Bootcamp: Monday, 18 March to Friday, 22 March 2019

Coaching Program: April to June 2019

Dolphin Tank: Thursday, 20 June 2019

Who should I contact for more information?

If you have any questions about the Springboard Enterprises Tech program, guidelines or deadlines, email us at info@sbeaustralia.org.